West Nile Virus - FAQs

What is West Nile Virus?

West Nile Virus (WNV) is a potentially serious mosquito-borne virus. WNV is established as a seasonal epidemic in North America that flares up in the summer and continues into the fall. It is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on the blood of infected birds. It was first identified in the United States in the late summer of 1999.

How do people get infected with West Nile Virus?

Most people
become infected with West Nile Virus from the bite of an infected
mosquito. A mosquito becomes infected when it feeds on the blood of a
bird that is infected with the virus. The mosquito then becomes capable
of passing the virus to people and animals by biting them.

In a
very small number of cases, WNV also has been spread through blood
transfusions, organ transplants, breastfeeding and even during pregnancy
from mother to baby.

People can not get West Nile Virus by
touching or kissing someone who is infected, or from being around a
health care worker who has treated an infected person. Likewise, the
virus can not pass from infected animals (i.e., horses, birds, pets,
etc.) to people. For more information on how West Nile Virus can spread,
visit the following page: West Nile Virus Infection

Who is at risk for getting West Nile Virus?

People who live or
work in areas where active cases of West Nile Virus have been identified
are at risk of infection. That is why it is so important to avoid
mosquito bites, especially during times of high virus activity.

Most
people infected with West Nile Virus have mild symptoms or no symptoms
at all. People over the age of 50 and those with weaker immune systems
and chronic diseases are at greater risk for serious health effects.

When is the risk of becoming infected with West Nile Virus greatest?

The
risk of becoming infected is greatest during mosquito season. This can
start as early as mid-April and last until September or October.

What can people do to reduce their risk of West Nile Virus infection?

The
best way you can protect yourself and your family from West Nile virus
is by minimizing your exposure to mosquitoes and by eliminating mosquito
habitats around your home and vacation property. For more information,
visit this page: West Nile Virus Prevention